Japanese Food & Drink Guide: A Beginner’s Journey into Washoku (和食)
To truly understand Japan, start with its flavors.
A Japanese meal is an experience that feels different on a fundamental level. It’s a perfect balance where no single flavor dominates, and every artfully arranged dish feels deeply intentional. This harmony is not an accident. It reflects Washoku (和食), the traditional philosophy of Japanese cuisine that emphasizes balance, respect for nature, and the celebration of seasonal ingredients. More than just a way of cooking, Washoku represents a way of life that finds beauty and meaning in harmony.
Below are articles and stories about Japanese cuisine, from everyday comfort dishes to refined dining experiences. Let your curiosity guide you, and allow these articles to inspire your own culinary journey through Japan.
Start Here: A Taste of Japan
Begin your journey with dishes and drinks that reveal Japan’s character through taste, texture, and tradition.
Best Mochi in Japan: Where to Get the Ultimate Mochi
Discover where to find the freshest and most authentic mochi in Japan – from Tokyo to Kyoto and beyond.
Best Omurice in Japan: 5 Places You Have to Try
Explore Japan’s best Omurice, from Tokyo’s Taimeiken to Kyoto’s Kichi Kichi. Learn what makes this creamy rice-and-egg dish a true comfort food.
Best Umeshu In Japan: 7 Plum Wines You Have to Try
Whether you like it sweet or complex, explore a curated list of Japan’s top Umeshu varieties, from traditional plum wine to innovative flavor twists.
Best Matcha Powder in Japan and Where to Get It
From Kyoto’s Uji tea houses to Nishio’s lush farms. Learn how to spot real matcha and where to find it during your trip.
The Reason Why the Japanese Eat Raw Fish
A fascinating cultural deep dive into the history of sushi and sashimi and why raw fish remains a fresh, safe, and beloved cornerstone of the Japanese diet.
Browse All Japanese Food & Drink Articles
Discover Japanese classics, unique drinks, and practical guides that will enrich your appreciation for Japanese cuisine.